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Monday, March 12, 2018

This week's Music Monday is Choctaw Nation, by Irish singer/songwriter Damien Dempsey. The song talks about the interaction of the Choctaw Nation with the people of Ireland. The "Sheridan" referenced in the lyrics (posted below the video) was an Irish-born U.S. Army officer involved in the Trail of Tears forced relocation of the tribe; a decade or so later, the Choctaw Nation raised $170 (a significant sum in 1847 Indian Territory) to send to Ireland for relief of the Irish Potato Famine victims.

Today, Ireland's Prime Minister Leo Varadkar visited the Choctaw Nation in Durant to recognize that act of friendship and empathy, and announce the establishment of a new scholarship program for Choctaw Nation members to study in Ireland. A monument was raised in Ireland last year also noting the Choctaw gift.

Enjoy!

Lyrics:

Choctaw Nation, I am in your debtChoctaw Nation, I just want to thank youChoctaw Nation, I got so upset when I learned of your wisdom and your virtueI am sorry for that evil manI feel shamed that he came from my countryI am sorry for that Sheridan, and the other tools used in coloniesYou were halved on the trail of tearsIn the wintertime of the yearHad to leave Nanih WaiyaFor the cold OklahomaWell you lay down upon the roadTired and hungry and freezing coldThousands died on the rough terrain,Food and blankets they never cameYou sent money you could not affordYou were touched by Irish peoples sufferingAnd your brave example of struck a chordNow the Irish are so good at givingChoctaw Nation, I am in your debtChoctaw Nation, I just want to thank youChoctaw Nation, I got so upset when I learned of your wisdom and your virtueChoctaw Nation, Thank you.

See below for all previous Music Monday posts. Do you have a song you'd like to suggest for a future Music Monday? Email me at JamisonFaught@MuskogeePolitico.com.